Diabetes can impact more than just your blood sugar – it can change the way you see the world.
At Little Lake Family Eye Care in Barrie, we help patients take control of their diabetes-related eye health with proactive care and advanced eye diagnostics.
How Diabetes Affects the Eyes
When most people think about diabetes, they think of insulin and blood sugar – not eyesight. But your eyes are one of the first areas in the body to show signs of diabetes-related complications.
The eyes rely on a complex network of blood vessels to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the retina. Elevated blood sugar levels damage these vessels over time, often without any pain or noticeable symptoms at first. This condition, known as diabetic retinopathy, is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in adults.
Other eye issues associated with diabetes include:
- Blurry vision caused by fluid shifts in the lens
- Cataracts that form earlier and progress faster than in non-diabetic patients
- Glaucoma, where increased pressure in the eye damages the optic nerve
Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics are at risk – even if their condition is well-managed. That’s why optometrists like Dr. Tahmina Arieb and Dr. Daniel Rubin recommend routine diabetic eye exams to monitor for early changes.
The Warning Signs of Diabetic Eye Disease
What makes diabetic eye disease so dangerous is how quietly it develops. Many patients don’t notice symptoms until the damage is already done. But subtle changes can be caught early with a comprehensive eye exam.
Here are a few symptoms to watch for:
- Sudden or fluctuating blurry vision
- Seeing floaters or flashes of light
- Trouble seeing at night
- Areas of darkness or missing vision
- Eye pain or pressure
Even if these symptoms resolve on their own, they may signal an underlying issue that needs immediate attention. Optometrists like Dr. Rubin and Dr. Arieb use diagnostic imaging and retinal scans to detect these changes long before they become irreversible.
Why Yearly Diabetic Eye Exams Are Non-Negotiable
Eye complications from diabetes can progress even when your blood sugar is well controlled. That’s why the Canadian Diabetes Association recommends a comprehensive diabetic eye exam at least once a year – even if you haven’t noticed any vision problems.
At Little Lake Family Eye Care, diabetic eye exams are more than just a routine check-up. These annual visits allow your optometrist to monitor changes to the retina, blood vessels, and optic nerve over time. Early detection is the most powerful tool we have in preventing vision loss.
We also collaborate with your primary care physician or endocrinologist when needed to make sure your overall care plan supports your visual health. That kind of coordinated care is essential for long-term success.
Our Commitment to Diabetic Eye Health in Barrie & Surrounding Areas
From the moment you walk into Little Lake Family Eye Care, our team is here to support you – whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have been managing diabetes for years.
Dr. Tahmina Arieb brings her extensive training in diabetic eye care to every appointment. With a background that includes clinical rotations in ocular disease and service in under-resourced communities, she understands both the science and the humanity behind eye care.
Dr. Daniel Rubin’s compassionate approach and his deep clinical experience in managing diabetic retinopathy make him a trusted ally for patients. He takes the time to explain what he sees, why it matters, and how to take action.
Together, our optometrists use industry-leading diagnostic tools to capture high-resolution images of your retina, measure intraocular pressure, and assess macular health. But what really sets our care apart is education – every patient leaves their exam knowing exactly what’s happening with their eyes and what steps to take next.
Prioritise Your Vision – Book a Diabetic Eye Exam at Little Lake Family Eye Care
Diabetes may be a lifelong condition, but vision loss doesn’t have to be. With proactive care and regular diabetic eye exams, you can preserve your sight and protect your quality of life.
Whether you’re from Orillia, Barrie, Innisfil, or Midhurst, our team is here for you. Call 705-503-3937 or request your diabetic eye exam online today.
